Land promotion

Our team works hard to find new ways to bring major residential and commercial schemes forward through planning, providing vital new homes and jobs. Come help us create the thriving places of tomorrow.

Career opportunities in land promotion

The best place to develop your career

Join our family…

We’re one of the largest and most experienced land promotion businesses in the sector. You’ll be joining a brilliant team, in a successful company with a proven track record in acquiring land and delivering valuable planning consents.  We’ve been running for over 125 years and have the values of the Wates family behind us. It’s a big factor in why we have the best reputation in the business.

We offer lots of opportunities across different roles in a wide range of areas, such as land specialists, who find sites for the business. Other roles include land and planning managers who secure allocations and planning consent once the site is secured. There are also commercial land managers who acquire sites for the logistics sector, technical managers, and accountants.  

We have strong development paths for those joining as a graduate and want to support people who are keen to progress. If you’re interested in a particular area, we’ll give you all the help you need to become a specialist. Whatever your ambitions, there are lots of different ways to achieve them. Join us, and we’ll make sure you and your career thrive.

Our people thrive

About you…

Whether you have sector experience, fancy a career change, or are returning to work after a break, we’d love to hear from you.

In Land, ideally, we’d like you to have a relevant degree in property, planning, business or geography. Above all, you should have a keen interest in land, planning, and development.

In terms of experience, you might have worked with a property agency, as a consultant, housebuilder, or property developer. The most important thing is you need to be very personable, as it’s all about relationships and contacts. Someone who is externally presentable and can embody what Wates is all about.

Testimonials

Hear from our people

Holly Rush

Development Management Trainee

"I joined Wates with no prior industry experience, and it has been an incredible journey. Through the graduate scheme I worked in the Project team supporting the promotion of land through planning. I am also an active member of the Wates Women and Allies Steering Committee which I’ve gained invaluable insights from. Wates' dedication to excellence and innovative solutions have accelerated my learning curve while allowing me to expand my professional network. Their supportive culture and emphasis on development have made each challenge manageable and rewarding. I wholeheartedly recommend Wates for anyone seeking a dynamic career path with growth and opportunity.”

Careers in land

Want to be a part of our team?

Career opportunities in land promotion

Apprentice Planner – Level 3

Location: North Shields

Job Type: Planning

Application Deadline: 10-03-2026

Ready to take the next step in your career and join a supportive, collaborative team where everyone can thrive?About usSES Engineering Services (SES) is recognised as one of the leading M&E partners in the UK. Specialising in the design and installation of building services and infrastructure solutions, SES covers all aspects of M&E engineering.About the roleWe have an exciting opportunity for you to join our team as an Apprentice Planner. This role will give you the experience of working on a busy construction site as well as studying on a day release basis to achieve a level 3 apprenticeship qualification. Capturing the knowledge and experience of various disciplines within the building services industry to learn and understand the role as a planner, your daily tasks will include, but not limited to communicating with colleagues and producing & updating project schedules, collating progress of mechanical & electrical systems, site visits to gain understanding of systems and assisting the planning team with daily planning tasks.Your Responsibilities As an Apprentice Planner you will support the planning team with planning tasks and support other disciplines such as design & operations.Responsibilities include but are not limited to the below Contribute to the development of fully integrated programmes for all project phases, including pre-commencement, design, procurement, IRS, installation, commissioning, handover, and seasonal activities. Work closely with project teams to help prepare and share progress reports, progress percentages, and programmes, ensuring alignment with SES best practice, company procedures, and project requirements for effective management and commercial protection. Support the planner in establishing and monitoring a balanced set of performance measurement criteria throughout the project lifecycle, including key performance indicators, milestone management, and trend analysis. Assist in integrating design and procurement elements with construction activities to promote seamless project delivery. Collaborate with the planner and bid team to help produce integrated tender programmes and method statements for settlement meetings. Ensure all work meets relevant business standards and best practices. Foster a collaborative working environment with team members and external partners, valuing diverse perspectives and contributions. You will attend college one day a week and work towards a Level 3 apprenticeship in Building Services Engineering Technician.Driving license desirable but not essential.About you An interest in building a career in the built environment Enthusiasm for learning and developing new skills A curious mindset and willingness to ask questions Dependable and professional in approach The ability to solve problems and think logically Strong organisational and time management skills Prioritising tasks to meet agreed deadlines Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a team Comfortable with the practical aspects of the role, which may involve physical activity Awareness of health and safety and a commitment to working safelyQualifications: To be considered for this apprenticeship you will need to have achieved a Grade 4 or C and above in Maths and EnglishYou must not hold an existing qualification at the same or higher level than this apprenticeship in a similar subject.Roles may close before the deadline if we receive a high volume of applications.Our Commitment to inclusion We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.We're especially keen to hear from individuals who are underrepresented in the construction sector — including women, people from ethnic minority communities and people with disabilities. If you have a disability or require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know – we’re here to support you.

Bricklayer Apprentice – Level 2

Location: Barnsley

Job Type: Trades and Labour

Application Deadline: 10-03-2026

Whether you’re starting out or changing direction, our apprenticeship offers a welcoming path into the industry. You’ll learn on the job, work with a friendly team, and gain the skills and confidence to succeed.About the roleOur Level 2 Bricklayer Apprenticeship is a great way to begin your career in construction. You’ll gain practical, hands-on experience, learn from experienced professionals, and work towards a nationally recognised qualification. This role is ideal for anyone eager to develop practical skills and contribute to creating safe, high-quality structuresYour Responsibilities Responsibilities include but are not limited to the below: Assisting with the construction and repair of walls, partitions, and other brickwork Learning to read and interpret technical drawings and plans Preparing and mixing materials for bricklaying tasks Laying bricks, blocks, and other materials accurately and safely Helping to maintain a clean and organised work area Following health and safety guidelines at all times Working collaboratively with experienced tradespeople and other team membersAbout you To thrive on this programme, you’ll bring: An interest in building a career in the built environment Enthusiasm for learning and developing new skills A curious mindset and willingness to ask questions Dependable and professional in approach The ability to solve problems and think logically Strong organisational and time management skills Prioritising tasks to meet agreed deadlineQualifications To be considered for this apprenticeship you will need to have achieved a Grade 4 or C and above in Maths and English You must not hold an existing qualification at the same or higher level than this apprenticeship in a similar subject.Roles may close before the deadline if we receive a high volume of applications.Our Commitment to inclusion We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.We're especially keen to hear from individuals who are underrepresented in the construction sector – including women, people from ethnic minority communities and people with disabilities. If you have a disability or require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know – we’re here to support you.

Business Administrator Apprentice – Level 3

Location: Barnsley

Job Type: Clerical & Administration

Application Deadline: 10-03-2026

We're looking for motivated, and enthusiastic individuals from all backgrounds to join our Wates family!About the roleOur Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship will give you a clear understanding of Wates Property Services and how we work together to make a difference.As a Business Administration Apprentice, you’ll have the chance to work independently and collaboratively as part of a supportive team.Your Responsibilities Responsibilities include but are not limited to the below. Managing emails and phone calls in a professional and friendly manner Ordering materials and equipment to keep projects running smoothly Logging jobs, uploading documents, and keeping our systems up to date Responding to queries and scheduling contractors Raising purchase orders accurately Preparing clear and concise reports Coordinating contractor bookings Completing administrative tasks within agreed timelinesAbout you To thrive on this programme, you’ll bring: An interest in building a career in the built environment Enthusiasm for learning and developing new skills A curious mindset and willingness to ask questions Dependable and professional in approach The ability to solve problems and think logically Strong organisational and time management skills Prioritising tasks to meet agreed deadlineQualifications: To be considered for this apprenticeship you will need to have achieved a Grade 4 or C and above in Maths and EnglishYou must not hold an existing qualification at the same or higher level than this apprenticeship in a similar subject.Roles may close before the deadline if we receive a high volume of applications.Our Commitment to inclusion We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.We're especially keen to hear from individuals who are underrepresented in the construction sector — including women, people from ethnic minority communities and people with disabilities.If you have a disability or require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know – we’re here to support you.

Business Administrator Apprentice – Level 3

Location: Manchester

Job Type: Clerical & Administration

Application Deadline: 10-03-2026

We're looking for motivated, and enthusiastic individuals from all backgrounds to join our Wates family.About the roleOur Business Administration Apprenticeship will provide you with a full understanding of Facilities Management administration.As a Business Administration Apprentice, you will have the opportunity to work both independently and as part of our energetic team.Your Responsibilities Responsibilities include but are not limited to the below: Raise Purchase Orders for supplier attendance and ordering materials. Supporting the Contract team with financial administration Assist Contract Support with monthly invoicing. Preparing clear and accurate reports Working with the management team to ensure supplier invoices are approved in a timely manner. Providing occasional cover on the site’s FM Helpdesk which includes: Raising Work Orders on client CAFM system. Communicating with building user, engineers and contractors regarding task progress and completion. Keeping the CAFM system updated throughout work order lifespan – uploading documents, applying correct status, and adding helpful notes. Managing emails and phone calls within agreed service level agreements. Scheduling contractors. About you To thrive on this programme, you’ll bring: An interest in building a career in the built environment Enthusiasm for learning and developing new skills A curious mindset and willingness to ask questions Dependable and professional in approach The ability to solve problems and think logically Strong organisational and time management skills Prioritising tasks to meet agreed deadlinesQualifications To be considered for this apprenticeship you will need to have achieved a Grade 4 or C and above in Maths and English You must not hold an existing qualification at the same or higher level than this apprenticeship in a similar subject.Roles may close before the deadline if we receive a high volume of applications.Our Commitment to inclusion We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.We're especially keen to hear from individuals who are underrepresented in the construction sector – including women, people from ethnic minority communities and people with disabilities. If you have a disability or require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know – we’re here to support you.